It was the 7th annual Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series Kick off with RUSH creator Russell Simmons. This event brings in tons of folks from the art community and was created to heighten the awareness of emerging artists from all over the country.

The night began with a very informative “art talk” and words of wisdom by some of the industries finest that have found great success in with a career in the art world.

Guests were treated to delicious appetizers by Bread & Wine and Bombay Sapphire also had featured art….liquid art. They created 3 themed cocktails, The East Mule, The French 75 and the crowd favorite, Cinnamon Apple Collins. Did you guys know that gin makes a great cocktail?

The welcome speech was given by Russell Simmons, who also announced the winner of the night and talked more in depth to the crowd about the Rush Philanthropic Organization, the partnership with Bombay Sapphire and their commitment to the art community.

AND NOW IT’S TIME TO ANNOUNCE THE WINNER. Picked from over 20 outstanding artists, Seth Brayer was crowned the winner and now has the opportunity to feature his art at Art Basel in Miami at the end of the year and compete with other chosen Bombay Sapphire finalists.

His hand blown glass installation called “Melted Not Stirred” hung from the ceiling with vibrant blue tentacles stretching out on all sides. It resembled a gigantic glowing jelly fish. It also featured a Bombay Sapphire bottle at the heart of the creation.

Kimlai Yingling is a culinary producer, freelance writer & host who has been seen on AOL.com, MSN.com & Entrepreneur.com. She's been featured in HuffPost, LA Wonders, Dirty and Thirty etc. She has a bachelor's degree in Communications from Washington State University. Find Kimlai on Instagram @kimlaiyingling